Review by: Orchee Sorker | Photos by: Seth Brown & Orchee Sorker | June 6, 2024 | Louisville, KY In the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, was abuzz with excitement as it hosted the inaugural Gazebo Festival on May 25 and 26, 2024, curated by hometown hero Jack Harlow. The two-day musical extravaganza kicked off with performances by Karri, Jordan Ward, James Blake, Vince Staples, and SZA, captivating attendees with a mix of soulful melodies and high-energy beats. The festival, noted for its chill atmosphere, offered a variety of food options, a free photo booth for capturing memories, and areas with chess and ping pong tables for relaxation and friendly competition. Although the second day was rained out, Sunday's lineup included Ammarae, Omar Apollo, PinkPantheress, and Jack Harlow himself. The success of the first day, coupled with the anticipation for next year's event, has set a strong foundation for what promises to be an annual celebration of music and community in Louisville.

Interview by: Jenny Salazar / June 6, 2024 Leah Mason is a brutally honest singer-songwriter passionate about accurately depicting her thoughts and emotions on personal life experiences. From friendship and lover relationships turned toxic, Leah refuses to bite her tongue. Her wittiness and charm shine through her edgy, bold, and confident lyrics. Leah's music transcends boundaries, reflecting her desire to explore different genres and avoid being confined to a specific musical category. Leah has insightful advice and emphasizes the importance of listening to the perspectives of trusted friends when facing challenges in love, drawing from her own experiences and understanding of the complexities of relationships. Leah mentions that her latest single “Klepto” was inspired by a friendship that took a turn for the worse. As much as I saw the warning signs, I brushed it off as “flattering” that someone would want to be like me. That is, until it started getting way too personal. Stealing my things, copying my every move, stealing my friends… it went way too far.” When she goes on to advise listeners with a powerful message, "Trust your gut. I had a bad feeling about this person for a while and I kept ignoring my intuition even though it's always right. If you don't feel good around someone, they're not meant for you."  There's a vulnerability in friendships; people with ill intentions can take advantage of you once they create a relationship with you. Sometimes, we're blind-sighted by this, and it takes a while to recognize because we want to believe that the friendship is genuine. Right after writing "Klepto," Leah knew she wanted to film something with a ski mask to play on the whole "thief" theme for the music video. During the discussion with her videographer, they were reminded of the A24 film Spring Breakers, which is about a group of college girls low on cash who rob a diner and head to Florida for spring break. They decided to maintain the same neon-lit convenience store scenery mixed with a playful aesthetic as the A24 film. A pivotal moment in Leah's career was realizing her potential beyond a specific genre, allowing her to embrace diverse opportunities and experiences. This decision has propelled her toward a path of artistic growth and fulfillment. Leah's musical journey began with performances of Led Zeppelin songs, reflecting her love for classic rock. She finds personal resonance in the lyrics of "Going to California," embodying the determination and resilience expressed in the song. In overcoming creative blocks, Leah emphasizes allowing creativity to flow freely without self-imposed constraints. Her best work emerges when she embraces a sense of openness and freedom in her songwriting process and resonates it with a refreshing authenticity and a genuine connection to her audience. Leah's sound as an artist is characterized by her embrace of pop sensibilities, infused with diverse musical inspiration. Growing up in a genre-less household influenced her to various musical influences, from Miles Davis to Britney Spears, which powerfully shaped her eclectic musical style. Leah's current major project consumes her time and attention as she prepares for her upcoming album set to be released this year. The album is expected to convey a recurring theme of luck or lack thereof, reflecting Leah's genuine and authentic approach to her music.  To stay updated with Leah Mason, you can listen to bits of her unreleased music and behind-the-scenes videos on her TikTok.

Photos & Interviews by: Jenny Salazar | June 6, 2024 | Gulf Shores, AL Hangout Festival was held from May 17-19 in Gulf Shores, Alabama. It was a sun-soaked celebration that drew thousands to the scenic beaches. The setting on Gulf Shores' sandy beaches added a unique charm, with stunning ocean views, vast amenities, and range of food and drink options. Beach activities, art installations, and lounging areas ensured continuous engagement even between sets. The festival seamlessly blended fantastic music, beautiful scenery, and a lively, welcoming crowd, reaffirming its status as one of the premier music festivals in the country. As the last notes played and the sun set over the Gulf, it was clear that Hangout Festival 2024 had left a lasting impression, and anticipation for next year’s event is already building. Hazze Media chats with Little Stranger, Dasha, G Flip, Madds, Jessie Murph, and Inji. Check out their interviews below!

Photos by: Orchee Sorker | May 10, 2024 | Nashville, TN Aidan Bissett's Supernova Tour in Nashville at the Exit/In was an electrifying experience from start to finish. The energy was palpable as soon as Aidan took the stage, captivating the audience with his dynamic performance. The show was not just about the music; it was an interactive journey that had everyone on their feet, fully engaged in the moment. What set this performance apart was Aidan's genuine connection with the crowd. He didn't just perform; he made sure to interact with the audience throughout the night, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience. And the cherry on top was his post-show appearance, coming out to personally thank and interact with fans, showcasing his humility and appreciation. This show was a night you cannot miss!

Photos & Interview by: Orchee Sorker / Shot at The Drift Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee / May 8, 2024 Maggie Rose chats with Hazze Media about her latest album "No One Gets Out Alive" and current ongoing spring/fall tour. she dives into her touring experience, highlighting the excitement for the "No One Gets Out Alive" tour. She expresses joy in incorporating new elements into her live performances, such as strings, enhancing the sonic experience for her audience. Reflecting on her favorite tour moments, Maggie reminisces about the electric energy of beginning tour in St. Louis. She shares, "It was a great way to kick the tour off because there was so much anticipation behind it. It was a packed house. I really love that city!" Delving into the creative process behind her album. She reveals how personal struggles during the pandemic contributed to the songs in the album. Maggie shares, "Finding catharsis in writing songs about closure that I never got to receive, or writing songs about being grateful for what I have... Doing what you love and taking the precious time we have to make something beautiful." The conversation shifts to the captivating music video for "No One Gets Out Alive." Maggie praises the collaborative efforts that brought her vision to life, emphasizing the emotional depth and universal themes portrayed in the video. She remarks, "The video was beautiful, bittersweet, and poignant in every way that I wanted people to feel when they listened to the song." Maggie discusses her podcast "Salute the Songbird," a platform celebrating women in the music industry. She explains how the podcast not only connected her with fellow artists but also inspired her song "Underestimate Me," highlighting the strength found in being underestimated a woman. Maggie shares, "Being underestimated, that sucks...but the superpower of being yourself and you're gonna way exceed everyone's expectations when they already set the bar for you lower than they should." Beyond music, Maggie shares her passions for cooking, outdoor activities, and live music, showcasing a well-rounded approach to life and creativity. She offers advice to her younger self and aspiring artists by encouraging authenticity and embracing risks in pursuit of artistic fulfillment. "I want to watch an artist who knows who they are. Things are a lot more forgiving than we think. You can take more risks without everything blowing up in your face. We feel like everything's a little bit more severe than it has to be, and it should be more fun."

Review by: Orchee Sorker | May 11, 2024 | Nashville, TN Arden Jones electrifying performance at Marathon Music Works in Nashville was a night to remember. The crowd was instantly captivated by his stage presence and the seamless blend of pop and heartfelt lyrics that define his music. What stood out the most was Jones's ability to connect with the crowd. There was an authenticity to his performance that resonated with everyone in the room. He was the perfect opener for BoyWithUke and created the hype within the crowd. Arden Jones is a must-see artist for music lovers specifically those who love alternative indie pop. With his captivating vocals and infectious energy, Jones is undoubtedly a rising star in the music industry. Listen to his music on Spotify and connect with him on Instagram.

Photos by: Jenny Salazar | April 19, 2024 |

Interview by: Orchee Sorker / Photos by: Austin Martinez / April 27, 2024 Joshua Colley chats with Hazze Media about his journey in acting, acting in theatre vs. film, latest role as Monty in Netflix's "Dead Boy Detectives", upcoming role as Young Hook in Disney+ "Descendants", and life when he is not acting. If you want to start by introducing yourself and your journey. How did you get started in the industry? Very nice to meet you. I'm Josh. I was born in Florida and started doing theater there. I did my first professional gig at like nine years old in a Christmas Carol. My mom kind of was like “Wait a minute, something good is happening here.” She found an audition online for Les Miserables national tour. I would go on tour and through all of America. I ended up getting it. My whole family went with me on tour. From there, I booked Newsies on Broadway. That took us all to New York, and then I just started my Broadway career. I did a couple more productions. I did Les Miserables on Broadway. Then, I started doing voiceovers and little TV gigs. I never really dipped my foot too far into the TV and film world until my voice changed. I ended up moving to LA. I started to do more things in TV and film. I did a movie called Senior Year. That was my first really big one. Then, I got really lucky, and I got these two projects just recently “Dead Boy Detectives” and Descendants: The Rise of Red. Those were filming at the exact same time. So I was going back and forth from Canada to Georgia. You've had a diverse career, from theatre to film and television. How do you approach each medium differently, and what do you find most rewarding about each? When I was younger,  I loved theater. I was always a musical theater boy. That was really my forte. I'm a singer as well. So that really came into play with being on stage. That also came into play when I was doing Descendants too. That's why I was so excited to do that as well. Musical theater is where my heart really was for a long time. I didn't really even know very much about film or TV. Once I started doing film and TV, I really enjoyed the fact that what I was doing was going to last beyond. In theater, you do a show and there's no trace of it. It's really just you and the audience for that one performance. That is incredible in itself. You share that moment with the audience. However,  I can never look back at some of the things that I was doing when I was younger. It's really nice that with film and TV, I can look back and see the projects that I've done. I feel like it has such a wider reach with things on Netflix and Disney+, like it's so accessible for people. I love Broadway though. I definitely am going to make a return soon. I miss it dearly. There's nothing like that instant gratification of an audience reacting. It's like the energy is so palpable in a theater. Behind a screen, you don't get to see the reactions of everybody until like months and months later when it's finally coming out. I would say musical theater is like instant gratification and then film and TV is delayed gratification. They're both very rewarding. Could you share how you prepared for your role as Monty in "Dead Boy Detectives," considering his unique ability to see ghosts and his passion for astronomy? I had been in the world of “Dead Boy Detectives” for a while - just auditioning. Before I even knew Monty existed, I was in the running for other characters in the show. I was very close to one of the characters in the show and felt like I was going to get it. My friend Abby Monterey, who was in Doom Patrol, sent me the script and said there's two boys in this series. I auditioned but didn’t hear back. When it was coming to series, it was my chance again. I've been preparing for this whole time. I put on that British accent and I got very far in the process. At the end of the day, it wasn't a right fit for me.  I was like, “Darn, that sucks.” Then, I found out that Steve had written a part with me in mind for the show. When I found that out, I was like, “What are you talking about?” I only heard that in stories that writers had did that for actors. He told me he wrote the part with me in mind, which is really wonderful. Monty came very naturally to me. The very big difference is that he's very naive in a lot of the things and he's experiencing in the world. He starts out as a witch’s crow and turns into a human. That was really fun to play. The costume really got me in the spirit. The costume designer did an incredible job. The costumes in our show are so gorgeous, top tier. I don't know if anybody will be able to notice, but in my jacket, there's like little diamond cutouts with actual crow feathers in it. There's just so much detail put into it when you put the costume on. You're immediately transported into the world. Did you know any of the cast prior to filming? Yes, I knew Lucas Gage who plays the Cat King. We were talking about it before I even signed on. I knew Lucas, and then I also knew David Icono. David and I didn't even have any scenes together in the show because our characters are kind of in different plot lines of the show…but I hung out with him the most in Canada. That was really incredible because me and David were friends, but we weren't so close because we hadn't had the opportunity to hang out because he lives in New York. Us being thrown into Vancouver, Canada together and we were staying at the same hotel. We were like, “You're a bestie.” Then, suddenly our relationship just blossomed. He’s truly one of my best friends now. Also, Monty is transformed into a boy by a witch named Esther. How did you navigate Monty's dual identity? What was your favorite scene to film? When Monty's around Esther, he's scared of her most of the time. Anytime he's kind of like talking back to her, it's really scary. Those moments were exciting to play. Me and Jen had such a different dynamic off screen. I literally call her mother. She's just so kind, and we had this funny vibe off screen. Then, we'd have to get on screen and I'd have to be shaking and I'm so scared of her. The whole point of my character is that he's spying on the dead boys to bring the information back to Esther. His intentions may be like not the best at the start, but he slowly grows to fall in love with George and really understands the group. Now transitioning to your next film "Descendants: The Rise of Red," you play a young version of Hook. How did you get the opportunity to be a part of this film? I did the audition for Monty and Hook on the same day. I found out I got them both the same day. I was like, “What is happening? This is crazy.” Hook came very easy to me. I'm a huge fan of the Descendants series. When I was auditioning for young Captain Hook, I knew exactly what to do. I put a fake slit in my eyebrow, and did my hair up. I tried to try to create a character that I envisioned would be cool for the next descendant. I did my British accent, which was always a dream. I may not have gotten to do it on “Dead Boy Detectives”, but I did in Descendants: The Rise of Red. Hook is so different from who I am as a person. That's what was so fun to play for me. Outside of acting, what do you like spending your free time doing? Music is really where I go when I am not doing theater every single day. I've been able to write my own music, and I'm writing my own musicals. It's definitely in the musical realm. I'm working on some music that I'm hopefully going to release pretty soon. For those who want to pursue Broadway or Hollywood, what advice would you give them? I'm not saying anything that hasn't been said before. It's a hard business. You really have to love it and be passionate about it. The right role will find you. Just be yourself, and bring yourself to every role that you're doing. Thank you so much! I'm super excited for both of the projects. It was so very nice to meet you.

Photos by: Nadja Aumueller | April 25, 2024 | Zurich, Switzerland

By: Camila Molina On March 21, pop-punk enthusiasts had reason to celebrate as two prominent rising artists in the genre, the California-based band The Story So Far and the self-proclaimed "hottest new band" on the pop-punk scene Hot Mulligan, both released new songs. Despite being busy on tour, Hot Mulligan has managed to maintain their distinctive blend of heartfelt yet exhilarating and inspiring tracks. “Stickers of Brian” ridicules the irony of corporate jargon and culture, sticking to Hot Mulligan’s tendencies to draw from universal struggles that many youth in the United States have been speaking out on. Tade Sanville opens the song with “Reprimanded, why shouldn't I curse in an email I sent lying when I skip work?” Highlighting the sentiment that many people feel forced to be robotic and soulless in work environments where their well-being is overlooked, singers Tade Sanville and Chris Freeman state, “No one wants to know how bad you feel / All that matters is you pay the rent and keep the lights on.” The relatable and moving lyrics aren’t the only thing drawing listeners to the song, as the invigorating instrumentals and vocals firmly capture the ear. The band's harmonious blend of sounds is captivating; while each instrument holds its own beauty, it's the seamless unity of the instrumentation that truly mesmerizes and excites listeners. For a generation that worries they will never be able to buy a home, the lyrics make listeners feel like what they are hearing is relatable poetry, with lyrics like “Budgeting how long you’ll be alive” and “My family works ‘till they die / I wish I were happy to do that but I can’t fall in line.” Hot Mulligan often uses lyrics drawn from firsthand experiences, fostering a deep connection with their audience as listeners resonate with the authenticity of their music. This song, in particular, is not only technically awe-inspiring with its exceptional sound, but it also takes audiences through a myriad of emotions, making it hard to sit still while listening to it. Since their hit album “Why Would I Watch”, the band has continued to shock fans with powerful videos, incredible shows, and now this cosmic track. In a musical landscape saturated with past echoes, Hot Mulligan distinguishes themselves by consistently crafting innovative sounds and offering a unique perspective.

Photos by: Mackenzie Ryan | April 10, 2024 | The Basement East

By: Joanne Haner Dallon Weekes has come a long way since his days as a Panic! At the Disco bassist. The frontman and bassist of I DON’T KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME, often known as iDKHOW, never loses his edge while developing a new and unique sound. In their second studio album, “GLOOM DIVISION,” iDKHOW ventures into different tempos and themes, breaking into a slightly more indie pop and mellow tone in several tracks while staying true to their modern grunge vibe. Photos: MANICPROJECT Longtime fans of iDKHOW can take comfort in their high production quality and layered instrumentals. Just like in their previous album, “RAZZMATAZZ” and their first EP, “1981”, they continue to inject robotic voice interludes throughout the project, giving a sense of mysteriousness and building a continued brand that former Hot Topic kids and alternative rock fans can appreciate. Synthesizers and guitar solos pepper through the tracks, complimenting Weekes’ high vocal range and passionate singing. In terms of meaning and theme, gloom definitely is the word to describe it. Songs about loneliness, painful yearning, vanity and death fill the album, but somehow it doesn’t feel like a downer at all. For example, “SIXFT,” the sixth track on the album, contains seemingly morbid lyrics such as “Tried to bewitch your mind / But I let love die / How I failed / Oh but how I tried,” yet the chords and light snare feel airy and light compared to iDKHOW’s general sound. Weekes tells the story of a toxic lover, an unhealthy relationship that pushes each other to be their worst — repeating “I don’t want to see you darling / six feet underground” during the chorus. Similarly, “INFATUATION” is the most smooth and calming track of the release. Weekes’ voice breaks into a more gentle falsetto than fans might be used to — a new side of him that works in nice contrast with the album as a whole. Soft vocals and melodic harmonies coupled with a gentle snare in a less intense and less layered version of their slower work. Compared to “FIND ME,” which uses dissonant synthesized voices and robotic beeping to shift the mood, songs like “INFATUATION” show that iDKHOW can do more of the same. On the opposite end, the strong bass riffs and whiny, rough vocals of “GLOOMTOWN BRATS'' are more reminiscent of iDKHOW’s previous work — especially that of their first EP. It’s the head-banging, edgy type of alternative that scratches a particular itch. As iDKHOW dips their toes into new water and more mellow sounds, they show that they’re capable of different vibes of the genre. Who knows what is to come of them in the future, whether it’s more of what’s already working for them or a slightly smoother path.

Forest Claudette, a rising star in the music industry, has been making waves with their deeply personal and evocative songs that delve into themes of identity, vulnerability, and self-discovery. In a recent interview at South by Southwest (SXSW) with Ezzah Rafique, Forest opened up about their experiences, creative process, newest single, "Kobe Beef," & upcoming EP “Jupiter.” Hailing from Australia, Forest found themselves enchanted by the vibrant atmosphere of Austin during their first visit to South by Southwest. Reflecting on their experiences in Austin, Forest expressed their appreciation for the city's beauty and the warmth of its people, drawing parallels to their upbringing split between Australia and North Carolina. “We are overwhelmed by the amount of people giving us their time and energy here,” they share Forest's performance at SXSW has been met with overwhelming support and enthusiasm from audiences, despite initial uncertainties about the reception. With multiple performances lined up throughout the festival, Forest and their band have been thrilled by the opportunity to connect with new listeners and share their music. The conversation shifted towards Forest's recently released single, "Kobe Beef," which serves as a precursor to their upcoming EP titled "Jupiter." Forest recounted a memorable incident during a live performance of the song, where a listener abruptly left the venue upon hearing a specific lyric referencing non-binary identity. Despite this, Forest remains committed to authenticity in their music, aiming to create a space where listeners can feel seen and understood.  "Each song on this upcoming album is a chapter of my story," they explain. "It's about confronting the challenges and celebrating the triumphs along the way." Through their music, Forest invites listeners to join them on a transformative journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Credit - Lissyelle Laricchia "Kobe Beef" and the forthcoming EP, "Jupiter," explore Forest's journey of self-discovery and acceptance, particularly regarding their gender identity. Forest collaborated closely with producer Alex Truman to capture the essence of their experiences over the past few years. Each song on the EP reflects different facets of Forest's emotions and struggles, wrapped in metaphorical storytelling that invites listeners to explore their own identities. "I'm overwhelmed by the love and acceptance I've received," they confess, gratitude lacing their words when speaking about the fans' response to his single. "It's empowering to know that my music resonates with others on a deeply personal level." Amidst the whirlwind of SXSW, Forest finds solace in nature's embrace, envisioning the perfect setting for listeners to immerse themselves in their music. "Night time or dusk... near a body of water or a tree," they muse, painting a serene backdrop for introspection and connection. As the conversation draws to a close, Forest offers a glimpse into their upcoming EP, "Jupiter," and the transformative journey it represents. "Jupiter is sort of triumphant, but it's very serious to me," they share, hinting at the emotional depth and authenticity infused into each track. With anticipation and excitement, Forest invites listeners to embark on this musical odyssey—a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and resilience. Listen to ‘Kobe Beef’:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAhtZUS8twM&pp=ygUaa29iZSBiZWVmIGZvcmVzdCBjbGF1ZGV0dGU%3D On the heels of a stellar SXSW run with performances at the Indie + R&B evening and Sounds Australia Presents, breakout alt-R&B singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Forest Claudette releases their atmospheric new single "Gold." The buoyant track arrives ahead of their upcoming EP Jupiter, which will be released on May 3rd. Introspective yet confident, with dense instrumentation, raw lyricism, and soulful vocals, the new track is another carefully calibrated level-up for the enigmatic artist. Follow Forest Claudette on TikTok here.

Photos by: Jaden Johnston | April 2, 2024

Interview by: Jenny Salazar | Photo by: Joshua @ Sound Collective LA | March 30, 2024 Dive deeper into the heartfelt melodies and soul-stirring lyrics of Michael Issak's latest EP, "Forever is a Scary Word," as we journey through the rich tapestry of his musical landscape. Released on January 12th, this six-track compilation is more than just a collection of songs: It's a testament to Issak's personal evolution and cultural heritage, intricately woven into each note and lyric. Drawing from his Egyptian-American roots and Los Angeles upbringing, Issak masterfully blends folk and indie pop elements, inviting listeners to embark on a voyage through his life experiences. From the passionately beautiful melodies inspired by classical Arabic music to the raw vulnerability of his lyrics, each track offers a glimpse into Issak's past and present world. As the Arabic folk guitar sets the tone, Michael's powerful voice sings a touching message in his song “Backfired.” Reflecting on the consequences of a lie, he reminds us all to be honest and true to ourselves in all that we do. The EP opens with "Hey Boy," a poignant letter to his younger self, setting the tone for the introspective journey ahead. There was relatability with how chaotic life can feel through so many periods, especially the era of youth. Whether it's past periods of how life can make you think or the current events it has you experience, Michael includes both sides. Throughout the EP, Issak grapples with themes of identity, love and the uncertainty of the future, echoing the universal struggles of coming of age in a rapidly changing world. Issak delved into the inspiration behind the album title, revealing his fears and anxieties about the concept of forever. According to Issak, "Forever is a Scary Word" encapsulates the overwhelming uncertainty of the future and promises enduring love and connection. In an interview with HAZZE Media, Michael mentioned he has been heavily "reading about this concept called apeirophobia,” which is the fear of infinity and forever. “This idea summarized the anxiety I experienced as an adolescent on the brink of adulthood, unsure of what the future would hold," said Issak. Issak's songwriting is deeply influenced by artists like Phoebe Bridgers, whose ability to capture complex emotions with simple yet profound lyrics has left a lasting impact on him. Through his music, Issak seeks to emulate Bridgers' authenticity and honesty, creating a space for listeners to find solace and understanding. As Issak reflects on creating the”Forever is a Scary Word,” he acknowledges the transformative power of music in his own life. Each song served as a therapeutic outlet, helping him navigate the challenges of growing up and finding his place in the world. "[This EP] has viscerally shown me the power of music for healing and how important music was for my transition into adulthood," said Issak. From the melodies to the intimate lyrics, "Forever is a Scary Word" is a testament to Michael Issak's artistry and ability to transcend cultural boundaries through the power of music. As listeners immerse themselves in his world, they'll find a sense of familiarity and connection that resonates long after the final chord fades away.